Geography is both a natural science and a social science that focuses
on where things are and why. Physical Geography integrates
several branches of the natural sciences to provide students with an understanding
of natural environment in which we live and
the systems and processes that shape it. This course also examines the impact
of the physical environment upon people and the impact of people upon their
physical environment.

Reading assignments will be made from this textbook, and occasional handouts.

HOW THE COURSE IS ORGANIZED

The topics of this course are divided into weeks, which may cover one
or two chapters. Specific topics areas are supplemented with online resources
(posted on the page of assigned readings). Classes will be in the lecture/discussion
format with full use of graphic illustration.

PREPARATION AND ASSIGNMENTS

You should complete the assigned reading by the due date. Check the online
calendar to see if there have been any revisions. Prepare for the class
by taking notes and asking questions on topics that you do not understand.

COMPUTER LINKS

The links from the COURSE SCHEDULE
are designed to complement the readings and lecture, and to provide students
with additional explanation and resources. Treat them as readings on reserve.

QUIZZES / IN-CLASS EXERCISES

I give four quizzes/exercises (each worth 50 points) to encourage you
to keep up with your reading and to enable you to measure your progress.
Questions may include multiple-choice, true-false, open-ended questions,
and matching. Some questions will involve the analysis of maps, diagrams,
or statistics. There will be no make-up quizzes. If you cannot make it to
class for a quiz, you must provide an official written excuse and write
a make-up essay within one week of your return.

MIDTERMS AND FINAL

There will be two midterms and a final. Each of these tests will be worth
250 points and will cover about a third of the course material. I will give
you a handout before each test that will give you a clear idea of the most
important material to review and I will suggest essay topics in advance
so that you can do some preparatory research.

Class participation means attending regularly, answering questions in
class, asking appropriate questions, contributing to classroom discussion
and group activities. You may be dropped if you are absent more than six
class hours. However, it is your responsibility if you decide to drop the
class. Do not count on me to drop you before the last date for a "W".

COURSE EVALUATION

Examinations (3 @ 200 points each)

600 points

In-class Quizzes (4 @ 50 points each)

200 points

Homework and exercises

150 points

Participation

50 points

TOTAL POINTS

1000 points

GRADING

The total number of points that you accumulate during the semester will
determine your final course grade. Final grades are based on the following
percentages of total points: